The Archaeo and Practitioner Detectorist
Detectorists Definition:
A detectorist has a broader scope than a metal detectorist. Supporting archaeological principles and values, a detectorist is primarily motivated by the pursuit of knowledge. Their activities include fieldwalking and metal detecting, focusing on all-material artefacts as dating evidence. With accurate spatial recording, a detectorist actively contributes to defining the contextual landscape. Recognising the importance of conserving the archaeological integrity of the land, a detectorist accepts the responsibilities of a custodian, ensuring that finds preserved from antiquity are maintained for future generations.
The Archaeo-Detectorist: Adhering to archaeological principles and values in their research, fieldwork, recording, and reporting, the Archaeo-Detectorist is well-suited as a volunteer to assist with Community Archaeology projects.
The Practitioner Detectorist: This status applies to professional detectorists who work for commercial archaeologists and heritage clients. Educated and experienced in archaeological practices, they promote DIF Standards and are proponents of the SPIA Survey methodology.
Our yet-to-be-discovered portable heritage, from both historical and archaeological perspectives, is an important and dwindling resource. While the discovery of portable antiquities through metal detecting may physically uncover finds, crucial information or ‘context,’ which is fundamental to understanding the past, can be lost if the finder does not consider a conservational approach.
Metal detectorists constitute one of the largest groups practicing a form of archaeology. Regrettably, only a very small percentage of the estimated 40,000 active participants record their finds. Tragically, many of these unrecorded finds are lost to society; some are even discarded as metal detectorists lose interest or pass away, leaving relatives unsure of how to handle their personal collections.
With the discovery of portable antiquities representing either a recorded and positive contribution to the public good or, conversely, an object that may never be seen again, it is surprising that a national program of education and the development of supporting best practices had not been actively pursued until our award-winning course was held at the University of Oxford in 2018.
The DIF Advisory Board, with representatives from 15 of Britain’s largest landownership, heritage, and archaeology bodies, sincerely wants to make a difference in heritage conservation. Our work involves researching and developing methodologies, standards, and guidance, which needs to progress through the creation of best practices, guidance, and an engaging approach to training and further education.
Joining the DIF will enable us to continue and flourish in our mission: To bring context to a world of portable antiquities and heritage conservation.
